Over 500 participants of the Bahamas Government Summer Employment Programme 2018 were encouraged to be ready to work and put their best foot forward.
On Thursday, July 26, during the orientation, Sen. the Hon. Jasmine Dareus, who is Deputy Director of Urban Renewal Grand Bahama, told the students that talent is never enough. Giving the theme of ‘Ready to work, ready to win’, she said, “Work is an action word and winning is a destination.
“Talent is never enough, so it is important that you understand that you have been given a grand opportunity, and we want you to seize every moment you are on the job, and be ready to work and ready to win.”
Giving them some advice as they prepare for work, she said they should be professional in their dress and speech, and utilize their time in a professional manner.
She told them to go the extra mile by if necessary staying late or going in early at the job.
“That is important because you want to be able to give back to your company, you want to show your boss that you appreciate the opportunity; you want to show the Bahamas Government that you are appreciative of this work time. You want to strive to be the best on the job and you want to meet and exceed your boss’ expectation.”
The Senator also urged the students to be mindful of their words. Quoting former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham she said, “Say what you mean, and mean what you say.”
Sen. Dareus said, “While on the job, I also want you to communicate effectively, communicate clearly. Resist the urge to blame others for downfalls, or blame others for something you are responsible for.”
She said the students should follow best practises by displaying good manners and dressing appropriately.
She added, “Do not get too comfortable boasting and bragging. Self-praise is no recommendation, so we want you to respect your peers, colleagues and co-workers.”
The four week programme begins on Monday, August 30, and the students are assigned to both public and private businesses on the island.
By Robyn Adderley
